CUTS to essential frontline services over the next four years have been ruled out by Wychavon District Council which has vowed to fill the £1.1million gap in the authority’s budget by continuing with its successful Grow, Save, Charge plan.
The decision was made at the meeting of Wychavon’s executive board last Wednesday.
The plan, which relies on the council growing its income, has saved more than £4million since 2013.
Details of Wychavon’s funding settlement revealed cuts will take place at a faster pace than expected with the council losing £262,000 more than planed for in 2016/17 alone.
By 2019/20 Wychavon will receive no Government funding and will be wholly reliant on council tax and business rates.
Wychavon will also continue sharing services with Malvern Hills District Council.
The partnership has already delivered more than £500,000 of savings and, in a bid to protect frontline services further, there will also be an increase in Wychavon’s share of the council tax by £4.99 for a band D household, taking the average bill to £119 a year.
Despite the rise, the authority said, Wychavon residents would continue paying the lowest council tax in Worcestershire.
The proposed increase is subject to approval by council later in February.
Highlights also include investing £5million of developer contributions into sport and leisure facilities, the creation of 400 new jobs and supporting the delivery of more affordable housing.
Coun Linda Robinson, Leader of Wychavon District Council, said: “When I became leader one of my aims was to protect the services people rely on despite the financial challenge we face and I’m delighted we’re able to do that.”
